OPT 110 - Introduction to Optical Technology
This course explains fundamental principles and applications of optics. The basic characteristics and the design of optical components and systems will be discussed. Topics such as the history of optics and the presence of optical phenomenon in our everyday lives will be introduced and examined. Basic optical manufacturing will be presented and a comprehensive look into professional career paths will be explored in the optics industry. Specific areas also covered include geometrical optics, wave optics, metrology, fiber optics, photonics, aberration theory, human vision, and animal vision. 3 Credits.

OPT 131 - Optical Elements and Ray Optics
An introductory course dealing with terminology and techniques in the use of analytical and laboratory methods for planning, executing and evaluating arrangements using components such as mirrors, prisms, thin and thick lenses, diffusers, stops, reticles, and various types of light sources. Reflection, refraction, dispersion, image formation and aberrations are studied with emphasis on the ray concept of light. (Students not enrolled in an optical technology program may be admitted to the class with approval of the Department Chairperson.) 4 Credits.

OPT 151 - Optical Instruments and Testing
Concepts developed in OPT 131 are applied to the study of illumination and photometry, colorimetry, testing techniques for optical components and systems including the eye, telescope, microscope, photographic systems and optical methods of dimensional measurement. 4 Credits.

Prerequisite: OPT 131.

OPT 153 - Fiber Optics
An introduction to the use and testing of fiber optic cable. Cable termination and splicing techniques will be performed. Standard tests of cables and cable systems will be conducted. 3 Credits.

Prerequisites: OPT 131 or OPT 110 and MTH 140, or permission of department.

OPT 175 - Quantitative Skills in Optics
This course teaches students the fundamentals of technical math and metrology as it is applied to optics manufacturing. Students will deepen practical understanding of mathematics, measurements, and a wide range of scenarios in optics manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance with appropriate software and testing tools. Students will learn to set up mathematical relations and equations based on physical situations, drawing on concepts from algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistical analysis. 4 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): MTH 098 with a grade of C or better, or MCC Level 5 Mathematics Placement or Permission of Department

OPT 201 - Photo Science
The chemical, optical and physical principles of the photographic system. In a series of laboratory assignments, the student gains experience in the use of a wide variety of equipment, as well as techniques of photographic testing of the system for image quality, information capacity, densitometry and sensitometry. Each student plans and executes a pictorial presentation related to a technical project. 4 Credits.

OPT 211 - Wave Optics and Applications
A study of light waves and how they may be used in today's technology. Electromagnetic radiation, coherence, interference and diffraction phenomena, transfer functions and the generation and use of polarized light. Analysis, manufacturing techniques and use of selected instruments using wave optics such as spectrometers, interferometers, diffraction gratings and thin film coatings. An introduction to properties and use of lasers and holography. 4 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): OPT 131 or permission of department chair

OPT 213 - Optical Fabrication and Metrology
A study of optical materials, processes, and measurement techniques employed in the manufacture of modern optical components. In the laboratory portion, each student performs all the steps in planning, tooling, fabricating, finishing, testing, coating, and assembly of precision optical elements. 4 Credits.

OPT 231 - Lasers: Technology and Application
This course will stress laser applications in science and industry, including measurement, communication, machining, information recording and holography. The basic principles of laser operation, construction and technology will be discussed in such a way that the student will be able to suggest and implement new ideas, and understand old ones, concerning laser applications and holography. The laboratory will include the actual recording and processing of holograms and other laser experiments. 4 Credits.

Prerequisite: OPT 211 or permission of department.

OPT 235 - Advanced Optical Fabrication and Metrology
A study of advanced processes, tools, and CNC technology that are shaping the methodology in manufacturing precision optical components. The course is designed to be very interactive, providing laboratory experience on the following subjects: CNC grinding and polishing, tolerancing, and metrology of precision optical lenses. 4 Credits.

Prerequisite: OPT 213 or permission of department.

OPT 245 - Optical Systems
This course extends and complements the two semesters of optical fabrication already in the curriculum. It covers assembly of multiple optical elements into cemented and mechanically mounted lens systems. It includes training in precision cleaning and inspection of optical surfaces. It also includes advanced metrology skills such as interferometry of transmitted beams and measurement of the optical transfer function. These are all skills that an advanced technician needs for the majority of optics industry clients. This course reinforces and consolidates the knowledge gained from the existing optical fabrication courses. 4 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): OPT 235 or permission of department chair